This was an incredibly well-done story of an Irish family moving to New York City so the father can pursue a career in acting. The story is told through the narration of the oldest daughter, Christy (Sarah Bolger). Christy is an adorable little girl who reminds moviegoers about the family's prior tribulations in the death of their son Frankie by claiming she can speak to Frankie and gain 'wishes'.
Christy's little sister, Ariel (Emma Bolger) is a delightful little sprite that adds even more of a delightful air to the cast.
The father and mother (Johnny and Sarah, played by Paddy Considine and Samantha Morton), try to shelter their children from the rigors of living without much money in a run-down crack house in the 'bad' part of town.
Mateo (Djimon Hounsou) is a neighbor of the family who is dealing with demons of his own, but is brought out of his shell by Christy and Ariel, and adds yet another great dimension to this film.
Unfortunately, the entire family is plagued by guilty memories of their dead son/brother Frankie, and the failure to properly deal with this coupled with the difficulties of such a life provide a heart-wrenching tale of inspiration and suffering.
Guys, quite literally, this movie stomped my guts out. Hard. I laughed, I cried, and I LOVED this movie. I went to see what I thought was a feel-good story of the family's high spirits reclaiming the life of Mateo, and was impressed and moved by so much more. DEFINIETELY a must see!!!
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Veni, vidi, vici--this goes out to all our NFC West chums
Thank you for breaking the circle of suck, Bidwill--Stout, December 7 2008.
Simon Champion!
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